Chapter 3: Intergenerational Family Solidarity in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The aim of this chapter is to discuss the key characteristics of intergenerational family solidarity in Bosnia and Herzegovina considering the major contextual factors. These are mostly related to the effects of the war (1992–1995) and its legacy, socioeconomic transition in the postsocialist period, and an altered demographic reality whose main features are very low fertility, population decline, and rapidly ageing society. In addition to demographic trends, special attention has been given to the socioeconomic conditions and social policy, highlighting their actual and potential influence on the solidarity among family members belonging to different generations. Although intergenerational solidarity has been institutionalized, the absence of family care for older persons is a consequence of permanent emigration in the past few decades, as well as labor market pressures, which have had a serious impact on overall social security. These circumstances undoubtedly affect contemporary intergenerational family solidarity. Moreover, although familism is still prevalent in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) society, the status of older persons is being challenged by the reduction of empathy in society, alienation, deepening social distance, and the fading of traditional values. An increasing number of older people with health problems, living alone, without permanent income, or with scarce financial resources require an adequate societal response and social policy measures that would meet their needs.